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Schuster: Ronaldo carrying Real Madrid

Former Germany international Bernd Schuster has praised Cristiano Ronaldo for his recent displays for Real Madrid.

The Portugal international has already netted 19 goals in 16 official appearances for Real in 2013, including crucial goals against Manchester United and Barcelona, and Schuster has nothing but praise for the prolific attacker.

"He has proven that he is willing and capable of carrying the team on his shoulders, which is a good thing. I'm not in the least bit surprised," Schuster told Marca.

"Cristiano Ronaldo's hunger, which he shows in every match, and his desire to score goals and win standout most for me."

Schuster, who wore the Real jersey from 1988 until 1990, believes Real coach Jose Mourinho has done a good job to prepare the team for the most important stage of the season.

"I think he wasn't doing anything terrible before and hasn't started doing anything special now," he said.

"He has a consistent way of working and he has the team primed for the business end of the season, the last three months during which the Champions League is at stake.

"Real Madrid have risen to the occasion and should be recognised for that. I think they can keep up the level they showed in the Clasicos and at Old Trafford.

"They were worthy winners and proved that when push comes to shove, they are up to the task."